Radiation Oncology Center in Salinas, CA

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Tips & Advice

How much does it cost to visit an oncologist?

The cost of visiting an oncologist will depend on the type of cancer care required and the length of the treatment plan.A lot will depend on your health insurance co-pay; some plans allow you to pay as little as $20 for doctor visits to a specialist. You may also incur expenses, such as blood and urine tests.

What is an oncology nurse?

An oncology nurse specializes in the care and treatment of patients with cancer. These medical professionals provide a vital role in cancer care. Their duties may include reviewing your medical history, monitoring your physical and emotional status, and administering cancer treatments. An oncology nurse can also communicate with your physician on your behalf.

What happens during an oncological consultation?

During an consultation, the oncologist will inquire about your medical history. You can prepare for this by writing down key items in your medical history beforehand. If you have relevant X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, it's recommended that you bring these to your oncology consultation. Your oncologist will discuss your diagnosis during your consultation, along with the side effects of recommended treatment approaches.

What is a pediatric oncologist?

A pediatric oncologist is a doctor specializing in the treatment and care of children and teens who suffer from cancer. Pediatric oncologists can examine patients and evaluate symptoms, and they may provide diagnoses and prognoses. These doctors help patients obtain the best drugs, therapies, and treatments to help combat their cancer.

What type of special training do oncologists receive?

Oncologists receive special training that starts with a bachelor's degree followed by four years of medical school. After graduating from medical school, oncology candidates are expected to complete two to five years of residency training in a hospital or clinic. Then they obtaining a state license to practice oncology.

What is an oncologist?

An oncologist is a physician specializing in the treatment of tumors and cancer. Oncologists can explain a diagnosis to a patient and help the patient understand all relevant treatment options. Oncologists can also help a patient manage the pain that occurs as a result of cancer, and provide solutions that help mitigate side effects associated with treatment.

Does radiation therapy always result in hair loss?

Any part of the skin that has hair might undergo hair loss following radiation therapy. However, this is typically not permanent, and hair will regrow when treatment is concluded. Still, many common forms of chemotherapy, used in conjunction with radiation treatment, will also cause temporary hair loss throughout the body.

What is a radiation oncologist?

A radiation oncologist is a specialist physician focusing on treating cancer through radiation therapy. Radiation oncologists must be certified as medical doctors and usually undergo a four-year residency in a general oncology (cancer study) department.

Who is generally on a radiation oncology team?

The head radiation oncologist is usually supported by several technicians and nurse practitioners to handle equipment and assist with treatment. They may also be supported by a radiologist team that will perform the imaging scans necessary to view some cancers inside the body.

When is a patient referred to a radiation oncologist?

Patients are usually referred to a radiation oncologist by a general practitioner, or to a general oncologist after a positive cancer diagnosis.

Reciptionist awful ignores you then greets you whenever they feel like. The wait time is ridiculous over 45 mins in waiting room. Then when your in the cubical another 30 min wait. Don't come here unless you love waiting. Doctor is ok very rushed, makes you uncomfortable. Dentist assistants are the only ones who I give a 4 star. Have Medical cover ca, look some where else. NO VENGAN AQUÍ NO VALE LA PENA NO LES IMPORTA SUS CLIENTES UNO ESPERA MÁS DE 1 HORA Y MEDIA. DOCTOR ANDA DE APURA Y RECEPCIÓN NO QUIERE ESTAR AQUÍ NO TE ATIENDE BIEN.

We initially went to Dr. Shen for a second opinion relating to post-seizure neurological and behavioral problems our elderly mother was exhibiting. Dr. Shen quickly determined that they were due to inappropriate medication she had been prescribed, and solved the problem. We have been going to Dr Shen since. We can't praise Dr. Shen enough for the core competence, expertise, and effectiveness he demonstrated during this stressful time, and consistently demonstrates to this day. He is all business, with just the right amount of compassion. The quality of our several follow-up visits have been consistently first rate. We have worked with many physicians in this area and he is excellent. We would not hesitate to recommend him to our friends and family.

The staff unfortunately is very rude and unprofessional. I had an awful experience here with Dr. Chawla. I wrote a negative review on yelp in regards to the horrible medical service I received. Dr. Chawla is so unprofessional that she has gone out of her way to personally message me and ridicule my character as well as respond to the yelp post. Her behavior shows how immature she is. Don't go here for care.

The medical assistants were great but the doctor was a complete jerk. He went off on me because when I was trying to verify a date that I started taking antibiotics for on my phone Callender, my phone dinged for a text message. I even apologizedo and he threatened to walk out on me for that. Then when he was giving me a list of stuff that I can take he wanted to give me something that I'm allergic to. Even after going overy the list of things I'm allergic to. In my opinion, it was the worse place I've been seen at, I'll never go back. I rather shell out the money and go to the hospital next time.

I have private insurance and I am very happy with Dr. Rosal. She is knowledgeable, professional, kind, and compassionate. She gives me her complete attention and never acts condescending or indifferent to my questions.

NEVER EVER GO TO THIS HORRIBLE MAN. HE WAS THE MOST UNPROFESSIONAL DOCTOR I HAVE EVER BEEN TO. I CAN NOT BELIEVE HE IS STILL PRACTICING MEDICINE. I CAN'T BELIEVE I HAD TO GIVE HIM A 'STAR' JUST TO POST MY COMMENT..... HE SURE DOESN'T DESERVE IT!!

Did You Know?

Physicians and surgeons help to keep people - from infants to the elderly - as healthy as possible. These individuals provide diagnoses and treatments for a wide variety of ailments, and preventative care and early detection for more serious illnesses. Whether you love or hate going to the doctor, the fact is your physician is there to listen to your health concerns, take preventative measures against diseases and advise you on your options for staying in tip-top shape.

In 2013, there were more than 1 million doctors of medicine in the U.S., over 854,000 of which were active. Additionally, in 2012, there were about 18,000 active general surgeons in the country. It's important to know which type of physician or surgeon you need, how to choose the best one, and account for other considerations in order to stay healthy.

Different Types of Physicians

Patients can choose from a wide variety of physicians depending on doctor specialty and what problems they are experiencing. Here are a few of the most common types of physicians that you may see in your lifetime:

General Practitioner
Your GP is the doctor that you go to for regular checkups, vaccines and to identify health issues. GPs can treat many different illnesses and injuries, from the common cold to a broken arm. If your health requires a second opinion or expert care, the GP will refer you to a specialist who has the skills to focus in on the issue.

Cardiologist
Heart attacks and heart disease are some of the most common afflictions seen across the country, making cardiologists important to your long-term health. These physicians specialize in studying and treating the heart and related diseases.

Dentist
Other than a GP, the dentist is likely the most common physician you'll ever see. These professionals work with the human mouth, ensuring that your teeth and gum health are up to par. Patients typically go to the dentist twice a year.

Dermatologist
Dermatologists are focused on skin-related issues and diseases, from skin cancers, to acute acne, eczema, psoriasis, and general cosmetic concerns like aging and scars. Most will also perform annual or semi-annual mole checks to screen for any signs of melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer.

ENT
If you have a number of sinus infections or have had your tonsils taken out, you've likely seen an ENT specialist. ENTs handle ailments related to the ear, nose and throat, often related to taking out tonsils and treating hearing issues.

OB/GYN
For many women, their gynecologist and obstetrician are the same person. These professionals work with the female reproductive system to focus on reproductive health, fertility issues, prenatal care, options for new and expectant mothers, neonatal care and childbirth. OB/GYNs can also help in the early detection of breast or cervical cancer.

Choosing a Physician

There are obviously a number of physicians that you can choose from, but how do you know if they're the best choice for you? Here are a few considerations to help you pick a physician:

Look at Your Insurance
Before you get down to the details, you need to verify which doctors are covered by your insurance and whether they are in or out of your carrier's network. Rates may be cheaper if the doc is in network – a doctor can be covered by your insurance but not necessarily in network. Out of network is typically more expensive. Doctors often add and drop plans, so it's important to ensure that your options are compatible with your insurance plan. Doing your homework will help you avoid unexpected expenses.

Check for Board Certification
Your physician should be certified through the American Board of Medical Specialties. Doctors must earn a medical degree from a qualified school, complete three to seven years of residency training, be licensed by a state medical board and pass one or more ABMS exams to be certified.

Examine the Reviews
Reviews of a doctor can reveal a lot about what your experience may be like. People may grade on staff friendliness, availability and effectiveness of treatment. Looking at these evaluations and getting recommendations from family and friends can direct you toward a physician for your needs.

Choosing a Surgeon

Surgeons can literally hold your life in their hands, and it's important to find the best one that can put you at ease and treat you effectively

Compatibility Factor
You need to feel comfortable with your surgeon. It's important to communicate your concerns and that your surgeon can respond adequately. Surgeons should be willing to go over the details of your procedure and answer any questions that you may have. They must take the time to discuss and address your worries.

Expertise Level
If you're going in for surgery, you want someone that knows what they're doing and has a high success rate. Ask how often the surgeon performs this surgery and try to find one that regularly does it. This will give you peace of mind that you're in capable hands.

Understanding Your Insurance

Your decision on a physician or surgeon can be majorly affected by the insurance plan you have. You may have insurance through employment, your spouse, your parents if you're under 26, or the marketplace if the previous options don't apply to you. It's important to understand how your insurance works to have the full picture of what you'll need to pay for.

Your insurance will have a deductible, which is the amount that you're responsible to pay for covered medical expenses. Some plans have coinsurances, where you must pay a certain percentage of the bill, and insurance will cover the rest. Co-pays state a flat rate for certain services, like paying $20 when you visit your GP or a $100 co-pay for an emergency room visit. Once you reach your out-of-pocket maximum, which will differ if you're an individual or within a family plan, your insurance may pay for 100 percent of covered medical expenses for the rest of the plan year.

If you plan to go to the doctor, need medication or have been recommended for surgery, call your insurance provider or go online to see what your plan covers. You can choose the best doctor for your needs, understand your options and prevent yourself from being blindsided by medical expenses.

Setting Your Appointment

Most doctors require a phone call for an appointment, although some may provide online scheduling as well. Be sure to have your insurance card with you when you set an appointment, and to bring it with you to the actual appointment. They need the ID numbers to verify your coverage, and will usually make a copy of the card for their files so you don't have to show it again unless your insurance changes.

When you call, let them know if you're a new patient, as this will require you to complete some paperwork for your first visit. Tell them the reason for your visit, such as your symptoms if you're feeling sick. It's also important to inform them if you have Medicaid and to find out if you need to bring anything to the visit, like current medications or medical records.

From here, the receptionist will likely ask what dates and times work best for you. During your call, it's important to be honest about your symptoms and the reason for your visit. This information will help the doctor treat you and give him or her an idea of what to expect. Your appointment may progress faster as a result, and the doctor can come prepared with a list of options to better care for you.

Risks

Doctors see a number of patients in a day, sometimes in 15-minute increments in areas where the physicians are in high demand. This can leave little time for doctors to perform thorough examinations, and they can end up missing certain problem indicators. While some problems, like a cold or flu, can be diagnosed in this time, more complex ailments require attention, which takes up time. Reviews can illuminate which doctors actively spend the necessary time with their patients and which ones are pressed against the clock to meet demand.

Surgery has some more dire risks attached to it, so be sure to talk to your surgeon about the potential issues that can come up as a result of your procedure. If a patient has a reaction to anesthesia, it can cause very serious complications, but this is an uncommon occurrence. Blood clots can be a significant problem after surgery, often caused by inactivity during recovery. Infections, numbness, scarring, swelling and death are all possible, but the likelihood of these issues will vary depending on the type of surgery you're undergoing. Talk to your doctor about your concerns and your risk potential.

Aftercare

Surgery affects people in different ways, but as you begin to emerge from anesthesia, you'll want to alert your nurse to any issues you may have. The nurse will tell you how the procedure went, what effect it will have on your condition, what to expect when you get home and how long it will take to get back to normal. If you start feeling pain, the nurse may give you medication to stop it from getting worse. When possible, it's also advised to move around to avoid blood clots from developing in your legs. This can be as simple as occasionally flexing your knee or rotating your foot.

Some surgeries are outpatient procedures, where people are released the same day. For major surgeries, patients may stay at the hospital for a few days to be monitored and address any concerns before being sent home. Discuss with your surgeon the projected length of the hospital stay and what you need to bring.

Recovery and Follow-up

Your recovery time and follow-up expectations will vary depending on your procedure. For example, you can be expected to be on your feet within a few days of having your wisdom teeth taken out, but it may be weeks before you have fully recovered from a broken foot or heart-valve surgery. Your surgeon will give you a list of things that you'll need to do during this time, including what medications to take and when you'll be able to get back to work and other activities.

Every surgery will have a follow-up call or appointment to discuss your recovery and allow you to ask any questions about unusual symptoms or changes in your overall health. If you have a major operation, like heart surgery, it's important to make regular checkups with your doctor or a specialist to ensure that everything is normal. Visiting a doctor will help deter infection and verify that everything is healing as expected. These appointments will give you peace of mind about your state of health and ensure that any issues are caught early on.